Debunking Myths About Participating in Nutrition Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are the foundation of evidence-based nutrition science. They help determine whether new foods, supplements, or dietary strategies are safe and effective, shaping the recommendations that guide public health and everyday choices. Yet, despite their importance, many people hesitate to participate because of misconceptions about what’s involved. 

By debunking some of the most common myths, it becomes clear that participating in nutrition clinical trials can be a safe, rewarding, and impactful experience. Let’s check out some of the most common myths about nutrition trials.

Clinical Trials Are Unsafe

One of the biggest misconceptions is that clinical trials put participants at risk. In reality, nutrition trials are carefully designed with participant safety as the top priority. Before a study begins, it must be reviewed and approved by ethics committees and regulatory bodies. 

Trials involving food or dietary supplements generally pose minimal risk compared to pharmaceutical trials, and safety is monitored throughout the entire process.

You’ll Be Treated Like A Test Subject

Volunteers are not passive test subjects–they are valued partners in research. Participants are informed about every aspect of the study, from procedures to potential risks and benefits, before they agree to take part. They always retain the right to withdraw at any time. Researchers rely on volunteers not only for data, but also for feedback that helps improve study design and participant experience.

Nutrition Trials Take Too Much Time

While some studies do require a significant time commitment, many are structured to fit into participants’ daily lives. Some may involve filling out food diaries, completing surveys, or attending occasional clinic visits. 

Others might ask participants to try a new dietary approach or take a supplement. Study coordinators work to make participation as convenient as possible, often offering flexible scheduling and clear instructions.

There’s No Personal Benefit To Participating

Many volunteers gain valuable insights into their own health through screenings, dietary analyses, or lab tests offered during the study. Some receive early access to innovative nutrition solutions. Beyond personal benefits, participants often report a sense of fulfillment knowing they are contributing to discoveries that may improve health outcomes for millions of people in the future.

Only People With Health Problems Can Participate

Not all nutrition trials focus on disease treatment. Many are designed to understand how diet affects healthy individuals or to test preventative strategies. Volunteers from all walks of life–including those who are generally healthy–are needed to provide diverse data that makes findings applicable to broader populations.

The Reality: Participation Matters

Participating in a nutrition clinical trial is not about taking unnecessary risks–it’s about helping advance science in a safe, structured, and meaningful way. By breaking down myths and understanding what’s really involved, more people can see that joining a study is a powerful way to contribute to better health for themselves and future generations.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways–through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.